Cantona: I could manage United

Former Manchester United striker Eric Cantona has said he would love to manage the Red Devils should the post become available, but he does not expect Sir Alex Ferguson to be stepping down from the Premier League club anytime soon.

The Old Trafford legend has limited coaching experience but is confident that he would have the drive and determination to the lead the side in his own way.

However, he believes that the United job is different to other types of roles and commands a certain type of personality and a boss who demands instant respect.

“I would say, ‘United is special, of course I would do it’. Today I’m with the New York Cosmos,” Cantona told the Daily Mirror.

“But if one day there is an opportunity, why not? Like diving from here to the sea, watching, speaking to the fish, octopus, crabs, journalists.”

He did though admit that the time has not yet come for a new manager at Old Trafford, with Ferguson being part of the very fabric of Manchester United’s winning culture.

“I love to watch United winning things and I want Ferguson to be manager for ever,” he added.

He also acknowledged that at 46 he still has plenty of time to assert himself as a manager within the English game and would like to take things step by step.

Eric Cantona ended up appearing for France 45 times scoring 20 goals, as well as achieving 4 Premier League titles at Old Trafford following his move from Leeds United in 1992.